News About Town: Even though there is no Hometown Holiday celebration this year, stroll through the Town Green (the area in front of Town Hall) to soak up the holiday vibes. The Green is bedecked in white lights, greenery, and red bows; the gazebos are especially picturesque. Check out the Town’s Christmas tree and menorah, ready for Hanukkah. Though the tree is already lit, you can watch the Virtual Tree Lighting online, featuring Mayor John Higdon, with performances from Matthews Playhouse, Butler High School Show Choir, Lauren Sharpe with the Charlotte Academy of Music, Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church Choir, and of course - a visit from Santa!
Shop Small in Matthews! Backyard Birds, a naturalist’s staple since 1996, has everything you need to fulfill a birder’s holiday dreams. Find birdhouses, feeders, and seed, locally harvested honey, and windchimes.
News Around Town: A few Matthews businesses are getting some much-deserved love from The Scout Guide Charlotte. Vote for Brakeman’s (Coffee Shop category), Your Mom’s Donuts (Bakeries and Sweets), and The Loyalist (Lunch) in TSG’s "Dine Like a Local" contest! Vote and get entered for a chance to win a $100 gift card to your favorite restaurants. Vote once a day, every day, through 5 pm, December 16.
One Fun Thing: Speaking of holiday spirit, while you’re on your way to the Town Green, stream Freegal through the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library system and rock out to some holiday tunes.
Our Teacher Appreciation Drive Needs You! We still have spots to sponsor a teacher for the week or donate gift cards for our Teacher Appreciation Drive . Many of the teachers at C.O.S. Kids are single parents themselves. They’re providing care for the children of essential workers and children in single-parent homes. They’ve been serving the community throughout the pandemic, and this is one small way we can give back a little to show a tremendous amount of gratitude.